“Some of music’s most notable names including Billy Joel, Rihanna and Missy Elliott have signed an open letter to Pandora Media Inc opposing the online music company’s push to change how artists are compensated.

Pandora is currently lobbying lawmakers in U.S. Congress to pass the “Internet Radio Fairness Act,” which would change regulation of how royalties are paid to artists.

A group of 125 musicians who say they are fans of Pandora argue the bill would cut by 85 percent the amount of money an artist receives when his or her songs are played over the Internet. “Read more here

Buzz Track: Get Behind Me

The Fisher Kings a indie rock act from Ontario just released a 5-song EP.  The band merges the tones and styles of rock acts such as Wolfmother, The Black Keys, and The White Stripes. They have opened up for Three Days Grace and The Trews. Already receiving radio some radio play, this is a band to watch.
Contact: the_fisher_kings@hotmail.com

“Christina Aguilera has the vocal chops, the look, the strut and millions of new fans thanks to her stint as a judge on TV singing contest “The Voice.”

The singer, who had global hits with “Genie in a Bottle” and the female empowerment ballad “Beautiful” more than 10 years ago, bids to reclaim her status as one of the world’s biggest pop stars with her new album, “Lotus,” released on Tuesday.

Aguilera, 31, says the title and the mixture of dance-pop, ballads and rock-tinged tracks reflect the hopes and disappointments of recent years that saw her 2010 tour for album “Bionic” canceled, a divorce and the box-office flop of her debut feature film, the musical “Burlesque. Lotus represents the unbreakable flower that stands the test of time. No matter the roughest of weather conditions, it remains strong and continues to thrive. (The album) is a nod to my fans who have been here with me the whole journey, and a nod to myself,” she said.

“Music industry experts say Aguilera’s popularity on “The Voice” – where her powerhouse performances leave aspiring pop stars in the dust – may not guarantee huge album sales and won’t give the singer a No. 1 hit.” Read more here.

Buzz Track: Salt
Justin Paul Lewis is a singer-songwriter rooted in Louisville, KY who has opened for Lucinda Williams, Norah Jones, Lyle Lovett, and John Hiatt. After listening to the track Salt which comes off the upcoming EP, you’ll notice he takes cues from Dave Matthews, but nevertheless discovers new territory. Kings will announce upcoming show dates.
Contact:  justinlewismusic@gmail.com

U2 frontman Bono is back in action with his ONE Campaign, and he has a message to the USA – do not forget  about foreign aid.

“Irish rocker and anti-poverty campaigner Bono will appeal to Democrats and Republicans during a visit to Washington this week to spare U.S. development assistance programs from cuts as Congress tries to avert the looming “fiscal cliff” of tax hikes and spending reductions early next year.”

The U2 lead singer’s visit comes as the Obama administration and congressional leaders try to forge a deal in coming weeks to avoid the economy hitting the “fiscal cliff” – tax increases and spending cuts worth $600 billion starting in January if Congress does not act. Read more here.